Things to consider before buying a park home

You might think that buying a park home is very different from buying a traditional brick home. However, in many ways, the purchase is very similar. It is still one of the biggest purchases you will make in your life and a decision not to be rushed. There are many things to consider when buying a property, some that apply to any residence and some that are unique to park homes. Here are some of those considerations for buying a park home:

One of the key things to consider with a park home is the matter of the ownership agreement relating to your home. A park must have the right planning and site licence that’s been issued by the local authority in that area. The majority of ownership agreements mean that whilst you will own the park home, you won’t own the land that it sits on. Depending on the site licence, there could be different rules and regulations in different parks.

Most sites are completely residential but if you buy on one that is designated as a holiday park, be aware that you won’t be able to live on the site all year round.

It’s important to fully understand your agreement because if you end up in breach of it, you could face serious repercussions.

The Costs

Park homes are a very popular option as they are often a more affordable alternative to a bricks and mortar home. It’s important to understand the extra charges that you will incur though. If the home will be your main residence, you’ll be liable for council tax. Pitch fees will also be required. There can also be separate charges for utilities like gas, electricity and water. For Bedfordshire Park Homes, visit http://www.parkhomelife.com/park_pineview.aspx

Do I need a solicitor?

You don’t need one, but it’s recommended for your peace of mind. Hiring a solicitor is a standard practice for buying any kind of property. With park homes being quite a specialist type of construction, it may be even more beneficial for you to have the assistance of a solicitor.

If the home you’re interested in is second-hand, it can be a good idea to have it surveyed by a surveyor who specialises in park homes. They will examine every part of the home, inside, outside and underneath to check for any potential issues and advice on how to resolve them.

Know your site rules

All parks will have certain rules and it’s important to understand these fully, so you don’t get any unpleasant surprises or fall foul of any of them. Common rules include restrictions on age, with parks normally only accepting those aged over 50. There can also be rules regarding pets and a restriction on the number of vehicles that can be parked on site. The rules are designed to make the park as comfortable and pleasurable for all, but they might not suit everyone.